Skin Tone and Hormonal Changes: Understanding the Shift With Age

Exploring how pigmentation, hormones, and time naturally change the way skin looks

As we move through our 40s, 50s, and beyond, it’s not uncommon to notice gradual shifts in how our skin looks—especially in tone. Areas that once appeared even may begin to show signs of uneven pigmentation, dullness, or dark spots. These changes are natural, but they’re also layered: they don’t come from age alone.

Hormonal changes—particularly around perimenopause and menopause—play a central role in how skin tone evolves. As estrogen levels decline, melanin production can become more unpredictable, leading to patches of hyperpigmentation or increased sensitivity to sunlight. At the same time, the skin’s natural ability to renew and repair slows down.

Understanding these changes is the first step in supporting your skin with more intention—and less urgency. In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between hormones and skin tone, what influences pigmentation after 40, and how to care for your skin as it continues to evolve.

What Changes in Skin Tone After 40?

Skin tone changes are often subtle at first, then become more noticeable over time. You might see:

• Dark spots or patches (also called hyperpigmentation)

• Dullness or a lack of natural glow

• Redness or blotchiness in areas that once looked even

• Sensitivity to the sun or slower fading of tan lines and marks

These signs tend to cluster around areas with thinner skin (like the cheeks and forehead) and areas frequently exposed to the sun (like the chest and hands).

The Role of Hormones

Hormones, particularly estrogen, are closely tied to how your skin looks and functions. Estrogen helps regulate the production of collagen, elastin, and melanin. When levels drop during perimenopause and menopause:

• Melanin production becomes less stable, leading to more frequent or uneven pigmentation.

• The skin barrier weakens, making the skin more reactive and prone to blotchiness.

• Cell turnover slows, meaning dark spots linger longer and the skin appears dull.

Other hormones like progesterone and cortisol can also affect inflammation and circulation, which in turn influence tone and color.

Other Contributing Factors

While hormones are a key driver, other influences play a role in skin tone changes too:

• UV exposure: Sunlight stimulates melanin and accelerates pigment clustering over time.

• Environmental stressors: Pollution and oxidative stress can dull the skin and worsen uneven tone.

• Post-inflammatory pigmentation: Skin that’s more reactive may hold onto marks from breakouts, rashes, or irritation longer than it used to.

• Genetics and skin type: How your skin reacts and recovers is partly inherited.

How to Care for Evolving Skin Tone

There’s no need for drastic measures—gentle, consistent care is key. Here are essentials to support a more even tone:

1. Daily sunscreen (SPF 30+ mineral): Protects from UV-triggered pigmentation

2. Topical antioxidants: Vitamin C, niacinamide, and green tea help brighten and defend against external stress

3. Barrier-repair moisturizers: Ceramides and fatty acids help calm reactivity and maintain tone

4. Targeted brightening ingredients: Azelaic acid or licorice extract can help fade spots over time

5. Red light therapy: Can support circulation and skin repair, helping skin tone appear more uniform over time

A Note on Expectations

Skin tone evolves—just like everything else. It doesn’t need to be perfectly even to be healthy or beautiful. What matters most is supporting your skin as it changes, using care that’s informed, calming, and consistent.

Why Consistency and Patience Are Your Skin’s Best Support System

Your skin is changing, and so are you. That’s not a flaw—it’s a reflection of time, growth, and resilience.

Rather than rushing to correct every shift in tone or texture, consider this: how can I support what’s already working?

Gentle routines. Thoughtful ingredients. A slower pace. Your skin doesn’t need fixing—it needs a little grace.